A recent series of workshops on basic techniques in puppetry design and performance concluded on Friday, when the final batch of participants were awarded with certificates.
Merundoi Incorporated, under the auspices of the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), collaborated with the unit of the Allied Arts, Ministries of Education, Social Cohesion and Social Protection, the National School of Theatre Arts and the National Library to host four puppetry workshops for children, elderly persons, teachers, social workers, and performing artists.
The final workshop, which commenced on July 22nd, targeted performing artists. The 20 participants of the workshop were presented with certificates at the closing ceremony, which was held at the National Cultural Centre on Homestretch Avenue.
In her opening remarks, the Executive Director of Merundoi Inc, Margaret Lawrence, said in addition to using puppetry for social change, the project is also meant to encourage entrepreneurship in the creative industry. Further, she said that the project is also meant to enhance teaching and counselling methods used by teachers and social workers. “We have trained all ages; our oldest puppeteer is a vibrant 83-year-old and the youngest is 5-years-old,” she noted.
During the presentation programme, the Secretary General for the Guyana National Commission for UNESCO, Patrice La Fleur, encouraged the participants to utilise their skills by implementing puppetry activities in their communities. In addition, she said that their newly acquired skill opens a gateway for them to become entrepreneurs in the creative industry. “If you do not use your skill, you will lose them,” she told them.
One of the facilitators, Michael Khan, noted that the participants were enthusiastic and enjoyed themselves immensely during the workshop. He also revealed that he along with the final batch of participants are currently making arrangements to hold puppet shows at the Botanical Gardens every Sunday.
Aungelle Henry, who was an assistant facilitator as well as a participant of the last workshop, said that the workshops were “very exciting” and she enjoyed working with all every single one of the participants, who proved to be “very creative and imaginative.” As a participant, she said, the most enjoyable part of the workshop was being able to create her own character.
“It was a very great experience,” added Vanya Persaud, another participant of the final workshop. She revealed that she will be taking her newly-acquired knowledge to school and will also use it to help children learn.
Another participant revealed that before the workshop he didn’t know how to make puppets or understand the art of it. “The workshop gave me the opportunity to learn all these things,” he said.
